The Qasr Qarun Temple, dating back to the Greco-Roman period, is situated on the southwestern edge of Lake Qarun, approximately 65 kilometers from El Fayoum and 120 kilometers from Cairo. A remarkable feature of this temple is the unique astronomical event that occurs each year on December 21st, coinciding with the winter solstice. On this day, sunlight illuminates the temple, specifically the Holy of Holies, where statues of the god Sobek were once placed and worshipped. This phenomenon is particularly striking as the temple remains in darkness throughout the year, receiving sunlight only on this special occasion
Qasr Qarun: A Journey into a Ptolemaic Temple
The Qasr Qarun Temple, often called the “Palace of Qarun,” is a Ptolemaic temple. It dates from 323 to 30 BC. The exact date is uncertain because no inscriptions exist. The temple is constructed from yellow limestone blocks. It is largely intact, though the Antiquities Department made partial repairs to the façade. They also reinforced some of the internal structures.
A Maze of Chambers
The temple’s exterior may seem modest. However, the interior reveals a fascinating maze. It includes chambers, hallways, cellars, tunnels, stairways, and upper rooms of varying sizes on multiple levels. This makes it an intriguing site to explore. A prominent winged sun motif adorns the entrance. Inside, two square spiral staircases lead you upward. The ceiling features a relief. It depicts the crocodile deity Sobek on the left and a monarch on the right.
A View from the Top
The roof offers a good view. You can see the desert to the south and west. You can also see the cultivated area to the north and east. The desert escarpment and the Birka are visible to the north, depending on the light.
The Ruins of Dionysias
The temple is surrounded by the ruins of Dionysias, a Greco-Roman town and garrison. The largely mud-brick remnants are not as well-preserved as other ancient settlements in the Fayoum. This settlement was likely founded in the 3rd century BCE and abandoned by the 4th century CE.
Most of the structures, including the Roman baths, are now just outlines on the ground. A few, however, remain partially intact. Some of these buildings even feature frescoes on their interior walls. The most notable remains are located approximately east of the Roman Fortress. In 1948, archaeologists discovered baths adorned with frescoes here. Unfortunately, weathering has since destroyed them.
The Winter Solstice Phenomenon
The temple hosts a unique event on December 21st, the Winter Solstice. On this day, beams of sunshine enter the temple. They illuminate the holiest of holies, where sculptures of the deity Sobek stand. This unusual phenomenon is a spectacle you shouldn’t miss. The temple remains completely dark throughout the year. It receives sunshine only on this one unique day.
Explore Qasr Qarun Temple with a Local Guide
Mohamed, also known as Hamada, is a local guide and researcher based in Cairo. He is the creator of Egypt Fun Tours. Mohamed studied in Fayoum for four years. He will take you on tailored tours to explore magnificent Fayoum. He will share his expertise and fascinating Fayoum anecdotes with you. This will ensure you have the best Fayoum experience possible.
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